quixotic
/kwɪkˈsɒtɪk/
Group 1Difficulty 3/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Exceedingly idealistic; unrealistic and impractical GRE
Example in Context
Her quixotic quest to eliminate all standardized testing was admired by some educators but dismissed as impractical by most.
Synonyms
dreamyidealisticimpractical
Etymology
Idealistic to an impractical extent, inspired by Don Quixote.
- Quixote (Spanish) — idealistic hero
Memory Aid
🦄Sounds like “quick exotic”
A QUITE EXOTIC unicorn trying to save a dragon from a non-existent fire is QUIXOTIC!
Visual Association
🌈A knight in shining armor chasing rainbows, trying to rescue imaginary creatures.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “quixotic” mean on the GRE?
quixotic (adjective) means “Exceedingly idealistic; unrealistic and impractical”. Her quixotic quest to eliminate all standardized testing was admired by some educators but dismissed as impractical by most.
How to remember “quixotic” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “quixotic” sounds like “quick exotic”. A QUITE EXOTIC unicorn trying to save a dragon from a non-existent fire is QUIXOTIC!
What are synonyms for “quixotic”?
Common synonyms: dreamy, idealistic, impractical.